Story lines

With the 49ers playing host in Candlestick this time, this game is a rematch of the season opener at Lambeau Field. The Packers lost, 30-22, as their defense was gashed for 186 rushing yards. The big difference now is Colin Kaepernick at quarterback for San Francisco instead of Alex Smith, who played well in Green Bay (20-for-26, 211 yards, two TDs). Kaepernick, however, presents a bigger problem with a stronger arm and dynamic rushing ability.

The Packers got a mild taste of an elusive quarterback against Minnesota’s Joe Webb in the first round. Kaepernick has been up and down, but he won't be thrown into the starter's role at the last minute like Webb. Given his size (6-4, 230 pounds) and strength, Kaepernick shouldn't be intimidated by Clay Matthews (6-3, 255) and the rest of Green Bay’s 3-4 defense.

For their 3-4 defense, the 49ers hope All-Pro end Justin Smith can be effective in his return from a triceps injury. Smith is set to play, but his effectiveness in taking out multiple blockers is a concern.

Two years ago, the Packers won three road games on their way to winning Super Bowl XLV. With that recent history, expect them to be focused with revenge on their minds.

Packers player to watch

Aaron Rodgers. Considering the volume, the 49ers held Rodgers in check (30-for-44 passing, 303 yards, two TDs, INT) during the first meeting. They pressured him well off the edges and disguised from where the pressure was coming. Rodgers has been red hot the past five games, not throwing an interception and producing 13 total touchdowns in that stretch. He also has done a good job of getting more receivers involved, spreading it around short and deep to take what the coverage dictates. That includes checking off to the running game, which has gotten a boost from DuJuan Harris. The Packers will try to keep the 49ers off-balance with varied personnel and formations to help Rodgers consistently find a favorable matchup.

49ers player to watch

Frank Gore. Gore rushed for 112 yards on only 16 carries in Week 1, including a 23-yard touchdown burst that helped put the game away in the fourth quarter following a Rodgers interception. Gore should expect to be busy as a runner and receiver. The Packers also will need to worry about getting fooled on read option plays involving Kaepernick and extra men in the backfield. Rookie speedster LaMichael James also looms as a change of pace for the 49ers. Before the Packers can worry about Kaepernick as a passer, they must stay disciplined to slow down Gore—much like they did with the Vikings’ Adrian Peterson in the first round.

Matchup to watch

Packers’ pass protection vs. 49ers’ pass rush. Rodgers was sacked three times in Week 1 and 51 times in the regular season, more than any quarterback. The Vikings alone just dropped him a combined eight times in consecutive games. Green Bay’s offensive line has the most trouble at the tackles, and the concern against the 49ers are outside linebackers Aldon Smith (19 1/2 sacks) and Ahmad Brooks (6 1/2). Both had success with a sack each in the first meeting and the goal will to get to Rodgers in the pocket. At the same time, they can’t afford to get too far upfield and let him elude the rush to make a big play with his feet—or an even bigger one with his arm. The 49ers’ secondary depth will be tested, and when they choose to play coverage, they need Aldon Smith to win his battles when they rush just three or four.